Analysis of spinal rods after removal from children with scoliosis

Title: Analysis of spinal rods after removal from children with scoliosis

Description: An innovative design of spinal growing rod, known as MAGEC (MAGnetic Expansion Control) was recommended by NICE for widespread clinical use in 2014.  Unlike traditional growing rods, the MAGEC design can be extended without the need for invasive surgery, thus reducing costs for health services and trauma for the children involved.  However, many MAGEC rods stopped working after a relatively short time in the body.  We have set up an international network to receive MAGEC rods which have been removed from children.  We then analyse the rods, including by cutting them open to determine the state of the internal components.  Our research has been featured in the national and international media (for example, BBC, New York Times).  In April 2020, UK and Irish medical device regulators said that no more MAGEC rods should be implanted until further notice. 

Academic staff: Professor Tom Joyce, Dr Simon Smith

Researchers: Goksu Kandemir

Contact: Thomas.joyce@ncl.ac.uk

Sponsors: None, we are independent

Partners: Primarily the Great North Children’s Hospital, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, but we have links to 10 UK and 3 international spinal centres

Start Date: November 2016

End Date: Ongoing